Should I retake the GMAT?

Question

Hi, I need some views on whether I should take the GMAT again or not. Also, tips on how to make profile better

Target school - ISB / IIMs

Current score (1st attempt) - 700 (Q49, V37), September 2023

Background - GPA - 3.5 / 4 (Bsc. Finance from a good uni), 2 years of work ex in Investment Banking, will be joining Goldman IB soon, gap of 6 months in the CV (joined family business), have done some volunteer work

Planning to apply in 2024 or 2025 (with 4 years of work ex)

Score-Quest · Answer

Hi,

Your profile is already quite competitive for ISB and the IIMs with a 700 GMAT score and a solid background in investment banking, especially with your upcoming position at Goldman Sachs. The gap in your CV is not a significant concern.

Retaking the GMAT isn't necessary given your strong candidacy; however, if you have the time and energy to potentially improve your score, it could further bolster your application and scholarship prospects at ISB. It's a personal choice and one that should be weighed against your current commitments and preparation level.

MiMEssay · Answer

👋 Hey  sd_lvl_17 ,

Here is a detailed profile evaluation for you:

GMAT Score  : 700 (Q49 V37) 📊

Impact : A strong first attempt, aligning with the competitive range for your target schools.
 Strategy : If you have time and resources, a retake could make you a standout applicant, particularly for global programs.

Work Experience  : 2 Years in Investment Banking 💼

Goldman IB Transition : Joining Goldman Sachs is a testament to your caliber. It’s a brand that will shine on your CV.
 Impact : Emphasize any high-stakes deals or projects you've worked on. The more quantifiable the impact, the better.

Academic Credentials  : 3.5/4 GPA from a Notable University 🏫

Impact : A solid GPA from a reputable program underlines your intellectual capabilities.
 Strategy : Supplement with any academic distinctions or extracurricular involvements.

Gap in CV  : 6 Months in Family Business 🔄

Impact : Could be framed as exposure to entrepreneurship and understanding of business at a granular level.
 Strategy : Reflect on skills gained during this time and how they contribute to your broader career vision.

Volunteer Work  : Social Contribution 🌐

Impact : Demonstrates a well-rounded character and a commitment to society. Specific stories of change or leadership here can resonate well.

Target Schools  : ISB / IIMs 🎯

Match : Both appreciate candidates with solid work experience and clear career progress.
 GMAT Score : Competitive for these schools, but as with any top program, the higher, the better.

Timing for MBA Application  : 2024 or 2025 📅

Strategy : This gives you time to build a more substantial profile, take on leadership roles, and possibly improve your GMAT.

Recommendation  :
👉 Dream: IIM-A (PGPX), IIM-B (EPGP), ISB, Kellogg (USA), INSEAD (France), LBS (UK)
👉 Competitive: SP Jain, Duke Fuqua (USA), NYU Stern (USA)

Closing Notes  : Your trajectory is impressive. Focus on deepening your work impact, possibly retaking the GMAT, and crafting a narrative that ties your finance expertise to your long-term goals.

With a solid application, your chances are bright!

🤔 If you need more help, we'd be happy to set up a   FREE call   and give more pointers on how to improve your profile and the right schools you should target.

Or DM for help!

👉 Click Here to Schedule a FREE Call 👈

GmatKnightTutor · Answer

If you're thinking of retaking, the ESR may be helpful to check out. If time management was an issue, using question/time markers may help. If you feel your fundamentals are solid, consider working on your solving approach. May boost your score a bit. Had a student for example who went from a V31 to a V40 in about 30 days. Perhaps include working with a study buddy. If you can find someone who is really strong on Verbal and needs help with Quant, that could be a good fit. There's a study buddy thread on gmatclub you could have a look at.

How to get a V40 or higher on the GMAT? What about a V51?

ScottTargetTestPrep · Answer

Hi sd_lvl_17,

Do you know the average GMAT scores at your desired schools?

EMPOWERgmatRichC · Answer

Hi sd_lvl_17,

First off, a 700/Q49 is an outstanding Score, so you can comfortably apply to any Business Schools that interest you. As such, a retest might not be necessary. You're ultimately asking Admissions questions though, so you would likely find it beneficial to speak with an Admissions Expert about your overall profile and plans. Those Experts should be able to answer your Admissions questions and help define the specific areas of your profile that could use some improvement (and the more time that you have to act on that advice, the better). There's a Forum full of those Experts here:

https://gmatclub.com/forum/ask-admissio ... tants-124/

GMAT assassins aren't born, they're made,
Rich
Contact Rich at: [email protected]
www.empowergmat.com

Should I retake the GMAT?

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